Other NFL players, coaches share Ray Lewis memories [Pictures]

Brian Billick had heard all week about what his 2000 team's defense was going to do to the Cleveland Browns. The Lewis-led group already had four shutouts in the first 12 games, including one against the Browns in Week 5 that year. When the Browns arrived in Baltimore in late November with Doug...

Brian Billick had heard all week about what his 2000 team's defense was going to do to the Cleveland Browns. The Lewis-led group already had four shutouts in the first 12 games, including one against the Browns in Week 5 that year. When the Browns arrived in Baltimore in late November with Doug... (Gene Sweeney Jr., Baltimore Sun)

Few players garner the kind of respect from the NFL's elite that Lewis does. That holds true for New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who had mixed success competing against Lewis-led defenses. "Ray's leaving quite a legacy," Brees said. "He's going to go down as one of the greatest...

Few players garner the kind of respect from the NFL's elite that Lewis does. That holds true for New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who had mixed success competing against Lewis-led defenses. "Ray's leaving quite a legacy," Brees said. "He's going to go down as one of the greatest... (Getty Images)

Throughout Lewis' career, his trademark intensity and ability to diagnose plays and deliver punishing tackles set him apart. "He was the standard bearer at the middle linebacker position," said retired NFL cornerback Eric Davis, a former San Francisco 49ers and Carolina Panthers standout. "He...

Throughout Lewis' career, his trademark intensity and ability to diagnose plays and deliver punishing tackles set him apart. "He was the standard bearer at the middle linebacker position," said retired NFL cornerback Eric Davis, a former San Francisco 49ers and Carolina Panthers standout. "He... (File photo)

Retired St. Louis Rams and Indianapolis Colts star running back Marshall Faulk was one of the most versatile all-purpose backs in recent NFL history. However, his speed, stamina and will were all tested whenever he lined up across from Lewis. "For me, playing against Ray, Ray has a unique...

Retired St. Louis Rams and Indianapolis Colts star running back Marshall Faulk was one of the most versatile all-purpose backs in recent NFL history. However, his speed, stamina and will were all tested whenever he lined up across from Lewis. "For me, playing against Ray, Ray has a unique... (Getty Images)

Former Tennessee Titans running back Eddie George had legendary clashes with Lewis. Their matchups pitted one of the most imposing, physical runners in the game against a ferocious tackler from the same 1996 NFL draft class. Lewis famously delivered some punishing hits to George, but no memory...

Former Tennessee Titans running back Eddie George had legendary clashes with Lewis. Their matchups pitted one of the most imposing, physical runners in the game against a ferocious tackler from the same 1996 NFL draft class. Lewis famously delivered some punishing hits to George, but no memory... (Baltimore Sun file photo)